The action of the show taking place in the early 20th century. The estate called Downton lives Lord Grantham and his family. In the large family of Lord for each member of the family and servants of their own role and their own place. In spite of the democratic and peace-loving nature of Lord, no one do not dare to question it. As it should be the will of the tradition after his death, the estate must go away to male heirs, but as the only candidate on the Titanic dies, the family raises the question: what do you do? Throughout the TV series we look at the development of relations in the two social circles: in the top, where it is about the family of Lord Grantham and in the lowest, where the servants live. These two terms are very different among themselves, but they do overlap.

Downton Abbey season 3 episodes list:

Episode #1:
Episode 1 (air date: 2012-09-16)

Cora’s mother arrives for Matthew and Mary’s wedding. New footman Alfred strives to meet Carson’s high standards, under the watchful eye of his aunt O’Brien.

Hoping for a bailout from her American grandmother, Mary makes sure Downton puts on a bigger show than ever before. Mrs Hughes gets worrisome news. Thomas disapproves of O'Brien's attempts to boost Alfred's progress.

There's excitement in the house and village as the annual cricket match approaches, and the event brings out Robert's competitive side. Violet's great-niece Rose shows up but a trip to London reveals there is more to her than meets the eye. Matthew and Mary look like they are keeping secrets from each other. Thomas finds out that his future lies in Carson's hands.